It’s lovebug season on the MS Coast. What to know about the pest & how to keep it away

Now that summer is gone, so are the relentless bugs.

Or are they? Well, as fall rolls around, some bugs go, but for others, it’s mating season.

Lovebug mating season occurs twice a year: once in April/May and again in August/September.

In fact, lovebugs get their name from how they look when they mate. They are often called the honeymoon fly because when they mate, they hop on their partner’s back and fly around together.

That’s kind of cute, right?

Here’s what else to know about the bugs:

What do they look like?

Love bugs are small, about 1/4″ in length with black bodies and red heads, according to Northwest Exterminating .

At first glance, it might look like the bug has two heads because its partner is hitching a ride on its back.

How long will they be around?

Mating seasons or swarming seasons for these bugs are in the late spring and early fall . Each season lasts four to five weeks.

You’ll see these little lovebugs around until early October, more than likely.

Do they bite?

Lovebugs don’t bite or sting.

The bugs are a nuisance because their bodies are so acidic, they can actually take the paint off of a car if they “bake” too long in the sun.

“Because decaying insect bodies tend to breakdown auto paint finishes, it is a good idea to wash the critters off of automobile surfaces regularly,” said Blake Layton with the Mississippi State University Extension.

“One method is to wet the surface and allow the smashed insects to soak for a few minutes before washing with soapy water. Repeat as needed,” Layton explained.

How to keep lovebugs away in Mississippi

If you are struggling to keep your car or other property clean, here are some tips to get rid of the lovebugs:

• Cooking spray: Once you start noticing the first few love bugs floating around, spray your bumper, hood and side mirrors with some non-stick cooking spray to help prevent the bugs from sticking.

• Degreaser: Spray the home cleaner and let it set for a few minutes and then wipe all of your love bug problems away.

• Baking soda: Mix warm water with baking soda and watch the bugs melt from your sight.

• Dryer sheets: Not only is this a great smelling option, but also an easy one to accomplish as this is a product most people have at home. Water, dryer sheets and elbow grease make this a quick option.

• Other tips: Blow them away with a fan or light some mosquito candles.

If you’re out of luck with these items, it may be best to run through the car wash.

Have you seen these bugs around? Let me know by emailing me at cmadden@mcclatchy.com.

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